I think this was a place where the adult Spoonbill went to rest and get away from the chaos of the rookery. In this shot there is only a single bird, other times during the day small groups could be seen. A little different look here.
Roosting Roseate Spoonbill.
I even considered turning down the vibrancy slider on these shots. I mean, really, look at the colors of this bird.
They aren’t always this bright, it’s mating season and she was just leaving the nest.
A day when the Spoonbills cooperated nicely. I’m not sure how many gave us great opportunities, it it was one of the best mornings to photograph them.
There are plenty of snags, the old broken palms, around the rookery edges. Walking along the outside there are places to get a nice view.
All you need is a cooperative Spoonbill to drop in.
Preening Roseate Spoonbill.
‘Baby spoonbills are colloquially known as “tea-spoons”. This nickname refers to their smaller size and underdeveloped, shorter bills compared to adult spoonbills. While officially classified as chicks, “teaspoons” is a widely used term among birdwatchers and photographers to describe them while in the nest.
Right spot, right time.
Roseate Spoonbill over a marsh.
A perfect pose for me.
Some vivid colors, behind a soft, vague, background.
Best viewed large.
Roseate Spoonbill
The juveniles follow along to the rookeries. Too young to mate yet still show up. Maybe they were last years hatchlings. They do get in trouble once in a while. Having chicks is serious business, and these guys can go where they are not invited.
Spring time is when Spoonbills colors go over the top. The pink turns red, green pops up, and tails become day glow orange.
All year they are striking, but just look what happens during breeding season…
